Feb. 1, 2010

twitter | connect with us, cm-life.com/twitter Grace Church renovates former Embers Restaurant for worship, 3A

Monday, Feb. 1, 2010

See who came out on top in the CMU vs. WMU blood drive, 5A

Central Michigan Life

Mount Pleasant, Mich.

[cm-life.com]

Gubernatorial debate becomes one-man ‘forum’ Bouchard drops out; forum moves to UC Auditorium

By Sarah Schuch Senior Reporter

State Sen. Tom George, RKalamazoo, will take the stage Tuesday as the only gubernatorial candidate still attending Campus Conservatives’ planned debate.

Since Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard dropped out Friday morning, the debate planned for 7 p.m. Tuesday in

Warriner Hall’s Plachta Auditorium will move to the Bovee University Center Auditorium.

It is a change that Bryant Greiner, Campus Conservatives president and Hart junior, said is “due to lack of interest from governor candidates.”

George said he is shocked more candidates do not take interest in a debate such as Tuesday’s.

“I just think that’s a shame that they aren’t eager to go to college campuses,” George said.

Greiner said college students have the most at stake for the election since they will live with the results for the longest.

Ted Prill, B o u c h a r d ’s campaign manager, said Bouchard could not attend because of a scheduling conflict. Sen. Tom George Other candidates not attending include Attorney General Mike Cox, U.S. Rep. Pete Hoekstra, R-Holland, and Ann Arbor businessman Rick Snyder.

With about 150 events a week, Bouchard just could not fit the debate into his schedule despite what they thought at

first, Prill said.

“It’s whatever is the best use of his time and fits all the campaign,” he said.

Topics of interest George said he will not stand up and speak for an hour. He envisions the presentation as more of an open discussion.

“I think it will be very important for me to make this a forum. I’m going to be a good listener,” he said. “I will take advantage of the opportunity to give some background on the state budget.”

George wants to explain why his plan for the state will work

Camarena seeks ‘transformative life’ for Honors students Program’s next director begins new role Aug. 18

By Emily Grove Staff Reporter

Phame Camarena will take over as director of the Honors Program at Central Michigan University this fall.

On Thursday, the current chairman of the human environmental studies department was named the successor to current director James Hill. Camarena will begin Aug. 18.

He has taught at CMU for 15 Phame Camarena years, instructing courses in human and adolescent development theory. He taught the Honors classes in those courses, as well as a separate class, HON 120: The Individual and Community in Modern Society, which recipients of the Centralis Scholarship are enrolled in during their first year.

Kentwood senior and honors student Mara D’Amico had Cama-

By Emily Pfund Staff Reporter

About one-third of Central Michigan University’s undergraduate students come from the metro Detroit area.

That fact is the focus of a large portion of the admissions department’s recruiting efforts.

Betty Wagner, director of admissions, said the admissions department has an office in Troy which focuses solely on the tricounty area of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties, with a strong emphasis on Detroit Public Schools.

CMU has strong competition in the area and, because of Detroit’s dense population, Western Michigan University and Michigan State University also receive about one-third of their students from that region.

But because of the shrinking number of high school graduates

rena as a professor her freshman year. She was a student in his HON 120 class.

“I loved him as a professor. He had a tangible impact on my life, and we still keep in contact to this day. I even use him as a reference,” D’Amico said.

The impact Camarena left on D’Amico is what he hopes to accomplish in the lives of many more students. Camarena said he will formulate specific ideals and goals over the next several months, once he has time to interact with faculty and students.

However, he does have a general idea for the direction he hopes the program will go.

“I’m personally committed to creating a transformative life for our students. When students leave our program, I want them to be qualitatively different than when they came in. My hope is they make a difference,” Camarena said.

At first, he said, he pondered the idea of taking the position, but then realized he was excited about it. The director position is a 3-year commitment.

“Some faculty jobs are more flexible, but director is demanding. I’m

w What: Open discussion with gubernatorial candidate Tom George w When: 7 p.m. Tuesday w Where: Bovee University Center Auditorium question on whether to draft a new Michigan constitution.

That comes up every 16 years, he said.

“If you want to make major reform in Michigan ... This is one way to do it,” George said. university@cm-life.com

jake may/staff photographer

Westland junior Dessi Tzankova, right, flips through the pages of a commemorative Elvis Presley book, reading facts of his life and looking at pictures of the singer with Renee Ringel, a 45-year-old Mount Pleasant resident, at her home Sunday afternoon. Tzankova and Ringel were paired through the Best Buddies program, a nonprofit organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Buddies ‘til the end Nonprofit organization offers lifelong relationships, lessons for students

A honors | 2A

By Sherri Keaton Senior Reporter

D

in the state, many Michigan colleges are turning to out-of-state students to keep enrollment numbers high. All three schools said the largest section of their out-of-state students come from the Chicago area. Wagner said out-of-state recruiting is “a real priority” at CMU. WMU spokeswoman Cheryl Roland said the university is looking all over for potential students.

“We’re also looking at Indiana, Ohio, Wisconsin and Minnesota,” Roland said.

Because MSU is a larger institution and more well-known, it attracts a large number of students from different areas of the country, said MSU’s Admissions Assistant Director Gabe Santi.

“We do well in California, New Jersey, New York and Florida,” Santi said. “We also do well where we have large groups of active alumni.”

Wagner said CMU is seeing growth in other areas as well.

“We also have a satellite office in Grand Rapids,” she said.

A enrollment | 2A

If you go...

Forming Friendships

CMU’s recruiting efforts heavier in Detroit area Universities also looking out of state for enrollment

and make sense.

He also plans to touch on health care. He realizes this might not be immediately relevant, but it needs to be mentioned, he said.

Republicans had the right to say no to the health care proposal in Washington, he said, but they do need to have an answer on health care.

With 1.3 million people uninsured in Michigan, he said he wants to discuss what can be done in Michigan to address the health care problem.

George also wants to inform the audience about another item on November’s ballot — a

essi Tzankova and Renee Ringel’s soft chatter bubbled into fits of giggles while the two carefully thumbed through pictures of the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.”

“My favorite songs of his are ‘Ain’t Nothing but a Hound Dog‘ and ‘Jailhouse Rock,‘“ said Ringel, a 45year-old Mount Pleasant resident, blushing at the thought of Elvis Presley’s looks. “I like him because he is a good singer and I think he is cute.”

Tzankova, a Westland junior, and Ringel met three years ago through CMU’s Best Buddies program, which is affiliated with the Volunteer Center.

Tzankova, president of

CMU’s Best Buddies chapter, still remembers the shyness in Ringel’s eyes when they first met. Their friendship has grown through Ringel’s struggles with breast cancer.

They plan on being buddies for life.

Ringel, who is developmentally disabled, has a quick laugh and speaks softly whenever she talks about Tzankova.

“She is a good listener and a good friend,” Ringel said.

Tzankova calls Ringel loving and optimistic. “(Renee) is resilient and so strong — she is my hero,” Tzankova said. “Everywhere we go, someone knows her name.”

A bigger program Best Buddies is a nonprofit organization that allows students to form friendships

the weekend in sports WRESTLING Men complete weekend sweep vs. Old Dominion, 1B

!

W O R R TOMOFEBRUARY 2

MEN’S BASKETBALL Win over Bowling Green puts team in sole lead of MAC West, 3B

What is Best Buddies? w Best Buddies is a nonprofit organization dedicated to establishing one-on-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

What they do w Socialize with buddies and foster relationships through outings, events and communication-building.

When they meet w Monthly meetings are held in Anspach Hall Room 161.

There also are smaller group outing events throughout the year.

For more information w Go to bestbuddies.org or e-mail a representative from the CMU chapter at cmubestbuddies@yahoo.com. with those who have intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Tzankova became president of the program last year and has many visions for its future.

A buddies | 2A

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Kendra Holman, CMU continue winning ways at home, beat Miami RedHawks, 1B matthew stephens/ senior photographer

WHERE AREIVING L U YO NEXT FALL?

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“People should join because you get more out of it than you put in,” Tzankova said. “When you see your buddy, your worries fade.”

TODAY’S PAPER SEE PAGE 8A EOF FORMATION IN OR M FOR

Mt. Pleasant Community

2 0 1 0

HOUSING

F A I R

2A || Monday, Feb. 1, 2010 || Central Michigan Life

EVENTS CALENDAR today

w The African American Women of Hope Poster Series is on display from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the Bovee University Center’s Multicultural Education Center. w Moore Media Records’ first general meeting of the semester is 5 to 6 p.m. in Moore Hall Room 110.

Tuesday

w Author Shutta Crum will speak from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Charles V. Park Library Auditorium about writing children’s books. A reception will take place in the Clarke Historical Library. w A resume workshop sponsored by Career Services will take place from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Bovee UC Lake Huron room. w A Tuba Concert by Faculty Artist Mark Cox will take place from 8 to 9:30 p.m. in the Music Building’s Staples Family Concert Hall. Admission is $3 for students and seniors and $5 for the general public.

buddies | continued from 1A

Best Buddies holds monthly meetings, along with a recruitment at the beginning of the fall semester.

“We like to recruit people by September, and it’s difficult if a college student breaks that friendship and we have to introduce the buddies to someone new,” Tzankova said. “They notice when they are being neglected, and that is why I stress that this is a friendship.”

There are 100 involved in CMU’s program — 50 students and 50 “buddies.” Students in the program must have oneon-one outings at least once a month and make contact with their buddy once a week by phone, e-mail or through the

Corrections Central Michigan Life has a long-standing commitment to fair and accurate reporting.

It is our policy to correct factual errors. Please e-mail news@cm-life.com. © Central Michigan Life 2009 Volume 91, Number 51

cm-life.com mail, Tzankova said.

If students are unable to fully commit to a buddy, they can become associate members who plan events and coordinate and brainstorm ideas, Tzankova said.

Inspiration Ringel recently went through chemotherapy treatments after a bout with breast cancer. She said Tzankova’s presence made a difference.

The two would do everything from eating at Dragon Express, 314 West Broomfield St., to playing basketball.

“She inspires me, and we’re really good company,” Tzankova said.

Saginaw junior Katie Boshans is another volunteer with the program.

“I know a lot of people who are really uncomfortable around the disabled ... that is why I joined Best Buddies,” Boshans said. “The experience has been really great because my buddy, Heather, is one of the funniest people I’ve ever met.”

A fundraiser benefiting Best Buddies will take place from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Culvers, 1021 E. Pickard Street. studentlife@cm-life.com

enrollment | continued from 1A

“(Applications are) more rapidly growing there.”

However, there is stiff competition for CMU with WMU, Grand Valley State University and eight private colleges in the area.

Programs In addition to focusing on specific geographic areas in student recruiting, CMU tries to recruit certain types of students.

“We’re trying to get top scholars, those students with stellar grades,” Wagner said.

The annual Centralis scholarship competition is one of several ways the school reaches out to these students.

“We also look at leadership students,” Wagner said. “They have the potential to be good citizens and give back. They’ll be involved in and lead different organizations and continue to volunteer in college.”

Each university can gain an edge in the competitive

market for prospective students by promoting the prestigious academic programs they offer.

WMU’s top draws for students include its fine arts, aviation and geosciences programs, Roland said.

“We promote our premier programs, which help to illustrate the caliber of the institution as a whole,” Roland said.

MSU has recently seen a growing interest in one specific program.

“Business has been very popular lately,” Santi said.

Engineering and natural sciences also are popular programs at MSU, which is known for its agricultural programs, Santi said.

Wagner said one of CMU’s programs that generally garners a substantial interest is different from WMU and MSU. “Psychology, traditionally, has the highest number of signed majors,” Wagner said.

honors | continued from 1A

at a time when I know I can do this,” Camarena said. “I have a lot of respect for all past directors who have immersed themselves in the honors culture and this university.”

When Camarena takes over as Honors Program director, he will vacate the job of chairperson for human environmental studies, but he already has faculty member Megan Goodwin lined up for the job. He personally recommended Goodwin and thinks she will do a great job.

Another goal Camarena hopes to achieve is to reach out and make the program more accessible to students, especially by emphasizing the value in what the program has to offer.

D’Amico has complete faith in Camarena and his ability to do the job well.

“I’m really excited,” she said.

“He will bring great quality and innovative ideas to create a more intellectual spark in this program.” university@cm-life.com

university@cm-life.com

inside life Central Michigan Life

3A

Monday, Feb. 1, 2010

BLACK HISTORY MONTH BEGINS

Spoken word artist kicks off month-long events

By Sherri Keaton Senior Reporter

He often spits out swift messages that hold rhythm and a consciousness.

Ise Lyfe, a premier spoken word artist and educator, kicks off the Black History Month celebration at 6 p.m. today in the Bovee University Center Auditorium with his presentation, “Is Everybody Stupid? Apathy, Disengagement and Ignorance Through the Hip Hop Lens.”

The Minority Student Servicessponsored event is free and open to the public.

Lester Booker Jr., interim assistant director of Minority Student Services, said Lyfe gives an impressive performance.

“(With) his performance, you see things on a deeper level and get a message of better understanding of media portrayal,” Booker said.

Lyfe will use photographs, spoken word, magazine sources, statistics and archival information to spread his message. His performance examines the public’s acceptance of media policies and rules.

Booker encourages those who come to get involved.

“The importance is to come out and listen to this performance and be educated on the true meaning and significance of issues that are discussed in music and T.V.,” he said.

Roseville sophomore Shanique Broom plans to attend.

She said Black History Month is about learning and accepting other cultures, specifically the African American culture.

“Black History month isn’t just a month in which only black people can participate in,” Broom said. “It’s for all people to become aware of the advancements of this culture and the notable people who have helped.”

Jasmine Wilson said all students should come to the events.

“I feel it’s highly important to learn about other cultures because it creates an open mind, and cancels out stereotypes,” said the Canton senior. “I also feel it’s important because it’s a great way to meet new people.”

Upcoming Black History Month attractions Today:

w "Is Everybody Stupid? Apathy, Disengagement and Ignorance Through the Hip Hop Lens," with spoken word artist Ise Lyfe takes place at 6 p.m. in the Bovee University Center Auditorium. w "Welcome to Idlewild: The Black Eden of Michigan," an exhibit on Michigan’s role in the history of segregation, is on display until March 1 in the Charles V. Park Library’s third floor exhibit area.

Thursday

w "Soup & Substance: The History Behind Big Hats in African American Churches," a discussion examining black churches, takes place from noon to 1 p.m. in the Bovee University Center Rotunda.

studentlife@cm-life.com

Officials seek to sell city center property

A Mount Pleasant| 5A

Michigan Special Olympics State Winter Games will take place from Tuesday through Friday in the Traverse City area. Nearly 100 Central Michigan University student volunteers will join 400 volunteers from around the state to help put on the competition. More than 1,000 athletes, coaches and chaperones will attend.

For daily results and updates, log on to somi.org.

Blackboard at lunch

An informative seminar on how to set up contact information, send e-mail, set announcements and create discussion boards and groups on Blackboard will take place from noon to 1:30 p.m. Monday and Wednesday in Charles V. Park Library Room 413D. The seminars are led by Ireta Ekstrom and Kelly Preece. To register, contact Eileen Sanders at 7743615 or e-mail facit@cmich.edu.

A Watercolor class will be offered from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at the Art Reach Center, 319 S. University St. Participants will learn how to work from light to dark and build upon layers of colors. The four-week class is $60 for Art Reach members and $65 for non-members.

Soup N’ Sandwich Supper

By David Veselenak Online Editor

What is its fate?

The state closed the center, 1400 W. Pickard St., last fall as a part of a

Special Olympics

Watercolor class

Building’s water and sewer lines taken over

State Rep. Bill Caul said he will introduce legislation this week to free up the Mount Pleasant Center property so it can be sold.

Caul, R-Mount Pleasant, said State Sen. Alan Cropsey, R-DeWitt and community and state health officials been working with him since February 2009 on the legislation.

“The last thing we want to do is let that building sit and deteriorate,” he said.

Under the proposed legislation, Caul said if the city of Mount Pleasant were to acquire the property, it could be purchased for as low as $1 if the land is used for public purposes. After the sale, the city would decide to sell all or part of the land to a for-profit company. Mount Pleasant would keep 60 percent of the sale — 40 percent would go to the state.

He said the city and state Department of Management and Budget still need to turn in an appraisal of the property and an environmental report to the state before legislation can be pushed through.

Caul said he does not expect the legislation to take long in the House and Senate before reaching Gov. Jennifer Granholm’s desk.

Before the city can begin the process of acquiring the property, the legislation must receive approval, said City Manager Kathie Grinzinger.

“Nothing else will happen until (the state) takes that action,” she said.

[Life in brief]

photos by nathan kostegian/staff photographer

Couples dance to the sounds of Louisiana at the “Night of Louisiana” event Saturday in Finch Fieldhouse. The Pine Leaf Boys and Lil’ Nathan and the Zydeco Big Timers kept the dance floor crowded throughout the event.

Finch goes Cajun ‘Night of Louisiana’ fun for attendees, caterers

By Jared Seymour Staff Reporter

F

or Anna McLaughlin, getting the food just right is important for a successful “Night of Louisiana.”

The night’s entree? Cajun chicken breast, jumping black-eyed pea salad and Cajun barbecue baked beans.

“It’s got to look good, smell good and sound good before it can taste good,” said McLaughlin, an assistant manager with Campus Dining.

More than 900 people received an early taste of Mardi Gras on Saturday night during the 19th annual dinner and dance in Finch Fieldhouse.

McLaughlin said Classic Fare Catering made the entree possible. The staff, she said, enjoyed the celebration of fine Louisiana music and traditional Cajun cuisine just as much as the crowd.

A.J Lattimore, a Big Rapids resident and CMU alumni, won tickets to the dinner and dance through a contest on WWBR 100.9 Big Country.

“I’ve never heard Cajun music before, but this is a lot of fun,” he said.

Mulliken junior Samantha Hunt also

enjoyed her experience.

“The music is fun, the food looks great,” she said. “It’s pretty crazy, though.”

Louisiana love Mount Pleasant senior and Student Government Association President Jason Nichol described the evening as a way to break out of the college tedium.

“I would definitely come again,” he said.

Lil’ Nathan and the Zydeco Big Timers perform at the 19th annual Night of Bartenders kept busy Louisiana on Saturday in Finch Fieldhouse. The event featured a dinner, with a large number of drinks, music and dancing. people ordering the New Orleans Hurricane.

Savoy. “I love this part of the state. The While the food and drinks are a signa- crowd was great.” ture of “Night of Louisiana,” the music Fifteen minutes later, Nathan “Lil’ kept people dancing the entire night.

Nathan” Williams Jr. and the Zydeco The Pine Leaf Boys were the opening Big Timers took over. act. Soon after under way, people of all “It was a pleasure being here in ages gravitated to the dance floor.

Mount Pleasant,” Lil’ Nathan said to an The band was not afraid to slow excited crowd. “We came and showed down for mellow selections. you how it is in Louisiana!”

“It’s too cold outside, but we’ve got fun inside,” said band leader Wilson studentlife@cm-life.com

Grace Church’s move on track Former Embers Restaurant under transformation

By Jaimie Cremeans Staff Reporter

matthew stephens/senior photographer

Mount Pleasant graduate student Adam Agosta and Mount Pleasant resident Angie Antkowiak remove the ventilation system from the former Embers Restaurant, 1217 S. Mission St., now owned by Grace Church.

The people of Grace Church are working to transform the former Embers Restaurant into their new and improved place of worship by fall.

Jason Tubbs, a staff member overseeing the project, said construction began in August, less than two months after the church purchased the 24,000-squarefoot building at Preston and

Mission streets for $750,000.

Since then, Tubbs said things have progressed smoothly.

The congregation hoped to have part of the building usable by Dec. 31 in order to christen the new location at an annual New Year’s Eve service. That goal was reached.

Now members hope to have all construction completed by mid-September, shortly after Mount Pleasant begins to buzz with the start of CMU’s fall semester.

“We’d like to have a grand opening of sorts in the fall, when the students come back,” Tubbs said.

Embers was a landmark Mount Pleasant restaurant

Heidi Fenton, Managing Editor | news@cm-life.com | 989.774.4343

for 50 years before closing in June 2007.

Church members have been meeting at least four nights a week to continue work on what they refer to as “Mission 1217” — the old Embers’ address on Mission Street. On Thursday, about 30 members were painting, putting up light fixtures and performing other structural work inside.

The church is holding one service in the new building at the end of each month until it is finished. As motivation to accelerate construction, it has set a goal to have at least one new room AGRACE CHURCH MOVING | 5A

A supper to benefit Christian Unity Restoration Home will take place from 4 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at Sacred Heart Academy. Cost is $5 for adults, $3 for children ages 5 to 12 and free for children under 5.

The dinner will include chili, chicken noodle soup, potato soup, sloppy joes, desserts and beverages. Christian Unity Restoration Home is looking to buy a home or property to establish a homeless shelter for the Mount Pleasant community.

Gladys Knight Concert

Seven-time Grammy award winner Gladys Knight will perform at 8 p.m. Friday at Soaring Eagle Casino, 6800 Soaring Eagle Blvd. Tickets are on sale for $45 to $65 each and may be purchased at the Soaring Eagle Box Office or online at soaringeaglecasino.com/boxoffice.

Tobacco Prevention Panel

A panel to support people interested in quitting smoking or in sharing their success stories will meet from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday at the Nimkee Public Health Kitchen, 7498 E. Broadway Road. Panelists include a pharmacist, prevention specialist, cultural representative, former smoker and health educator. Topics will include how to quit smoking or support someone trying to quit, success stories, information on nicotine replacement therapy options, and traditional tobacco use. Light lunch and tobacco prevention bingo will be provided.

Mortar Board seeks members

The Mortar Board National Senior Honor Society is seeking new members. All juniors with a 3.0 or higher grade point average are encouraged to apply. Mortar Board is a national honor society recognizing college seniors for their exemplary scholarship, leadership and service. Learn more about Mortar Board at mortarboard. org or e-mail centralmichigan. mortarboard@gmail.com with questions or for an application. Applications are due Feb. 11 to Box 94 in the Student Organization Center on the lower level of the Bovee University Center.

If you have an interesting item for Life in Brief, let us know by e-mailing news@cm-life.com

voices

“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”

– The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution

Central Michigan Life

4A Monday, Feb. 1, 2010

[cm-life.com/category/voices]

Brian Manzullo, Editor

in

Chief | Will Axford, Voices Editor | Heidi Fenton, Managing Editor | Eric Dresden, University Editor | Jackie Smith, Metro Editor

EDITORIAL | Failed gubernatorial showdown a loss on Campus Conservatives’ part

An empty debate

C

ampus Conservatives had a gubernatorial debate scheduled for Tuesday for about three months.

But it has since been reduced to a speech by State Sen. Tom George because none of the other gubernatorial candidates could attend. After endless promotion and the Campus Conservatives trying to stir up public interest, the supposed “debate” fell flat on its face.

Although Campus Conservatives was able to salvage at least a sitdown with one candidate for Governor, chalk this one up as a loss.

The registered student organization has been drumming up hype over this debate for a couple months, sending out press releases and dispersing flyers all over cam-

debating George would have drawn more students had Bouchard not dropped from the debate Friday.

It is understandable when events don’t always happen as planned.

Some things fall through. But it’s another story to parade this “debate” around, set the deadline so late for candidates to respond and insinuate to the media that certain candidates are coming when they really aren’t.

If the Campus Conservatives expects anyone to take it seriously, it needs to be more organized and execute its events with added precision and not draw up hype over something so uncertain.

Don’t tell students you’re going to host an event with multiple speakers if none of them have confirmed.

Don’t wait until the very last minute to announce there have been significant changes.

Campus Conservatives will hopefully learn from this and won’t let another event run into the ground.

the beginning. Each press release did not list anyone that confirmed, only that they were invited to CMU. Each candidate received their invitation back in November, giving the Campus Conservatives ample time to adjust the event as needed, depending on who would attend.

As the debate grew closer and the number of confirmations was not growing, the group took the deadline for replies up until the last minute instead of making an executive decision to reorganize accordingly.

This turned out to be a big mistake. Now the event is with one candidate and is moved to Bovee University Center’s Auditorium.

How many students will show up to a sit-down with one candidate, especially one they may not even know?

The fact that every candidate but one failed to say yes shows how unorganized the Campus Conservatives was when planning this event. Even an event with Bouchard

pus beginning in December. Beyond Sen. George, Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard, Attorney General Mike Cox, U.S. Rep. Pete Hoekstra and Ann Arbor businessman Rick Snyder were scheduled to be part of the debate Tuesday in Plachta Auditorium.

But something was wrong from

CHRIS TAMLYN [CENTRAL SQUARE]

Eric Dresden University Editor

CMU has lost its market With the announcement that CMU’s Athletics Department is considering charging students for events, I have one response: Don’t.

I know we are spoiled as students because, this year, we got to see a top-25 football team for free every home game, but Central Michigan University’s administrators need to realize one thing: This is the university’s last selling point.

I remember being a high school senior and the two things that sold CMU as the place for me was the CMU Promise and the fact I got into any sporting event for free.

I was among the last to get in under the Promise, a five-year fixed tuition guarantee that lasted from 2005-08, and that took some work over the summer on my part. But for incoming freshmen, what perks do they see in coming to a school that is the same as every other mid-major?

The top people at CMU need to realize this school doesn’t have a big campus like Michigan or Michigan State. It isn’t even located in a big city. Yet the school thrives here because students see the positives that CMU provides.

Several years ago, CMU was fighting to keep its Division I-A (now Football Bowl Subdivision) status.

With an announcement that students are going to be charged, the university is going to have a tough time maintaining that status.

Everybody is talking budget right now and rightfully so.

But charging students for athletic tickets is another lost perk of coming to CMU. Because of the budget cuts, the university is going to need all the perks it can get.

I enjoy going to sporting events and love the atmosphere. But this is just another hit the students are going to take because of “budget cuts” and that is going to hurt current and potential students.

If I were a high school senior this year and had to make my choice between CMU and MSU again, I’m not so sure I would be wearing maroon and gold to start in August.

[our readers’ voice]

Comments from cm-life.com on CMU possibly charging students to see games Joan McDonald says:

Central Michigan University is the only school I know of that still offers “free to student” tickets.

How lucky students are to have this still in place. Would you not rather pay a small amount to attend an athletic event than to have the program cut back because of lack of funds?

My daughter-in-law received her M.A. from a Big Ten school in 2001.

When she attended an event, she had to purchase her ticket, with real money. Football games were $25 per person, and that was the student rate.

Please think this through. Paying for your ticket could save a program.

Dustin says:

Sorry Joan, but that is the dumbest thing I have ever heard. First off, if you haven’t noticed, Central Michigan University is not a Big

Ten school.

Second, we do not play high caliber teams like Big Ten schools do.

How many people are really excited to see CMU blow out Alcorn State? There is a very small fan base for Central Michigan and it is hard to even get 20,000 people in our stadium. Remember, Central has around 25,000 students. I love football and there is nothing I love more than watching CMU football, and I would pay the ticket prices. But most students come to pre-game party, which has already been taken away. Why would any of these students pay to party when they can do it at home for free and unsupervised? The profit from student ticket sales would be so minimal, it wouldn’t even matter, I guarantee it! Attendance would drop, because I can guarantee students would boycott games just like they did the tailgate. We would then risk losing Division I status. That sounds to me to be a bit more of a risk. Over the last 2 years, I have lost my Michigan Promise and Central Promise — that is a lot of money. This is all we

students have left.

Comments from cm-life.com on proposed texting band Nick says:

Good start.

When I see someone swerving all over the road, and I pull up next to him or her, that person is usually texting while driving.

I have seen this several times, and it is dangerous.

Have a little respect for the rest of the world.

I hate to break it to all of you “important” people out there, but your social life isn’t that important.

Jill says:

It needs to be done. It is too dangerous.

I see it all the time and how can a responsible driver be so selfish.

It is a loaded weapon and consequences need to be made for the many people who disregard life.

Grow up.

C M Y o u | Do you have any plans to buy Apple’s upcoming iPad?

Central Michigan Life Editorial Brian Manzullo, Editor in Chief Heidi Fenton, Managing Editor Joe Borlik, Student Life Editor Jackie Smith, Metro Editor Eric Dresden, University Editor Andrew Stover, Sports Editor Ashley Miller, Photo Editor Will Axford, Voices Editor David Veselenak, Online Editor Chelsea Kleven, Lead Designer Advertising Lindsey Reed, Katie Sidell Advertising Managers Carly Schafer, Shawn Wright Multi-Media Marketing Coordinators Professional staff Rox Ann Petoskey, Production Leader Kathy Simon, Assistant Director of Student Media Neil C. Hopp, Adviser to Central Michigan Life

“No. I can’t afford $300 a month.”

Gregory Diebolt,

Dearborn junior

“No. I think technology is taking over the world.”

“I really don’t know what to expect from it.”

“No. (It’s) nothing special, just a big screen.”

Branden Donaldson,

Xu Zhang,

Detroit freshman

China sophomore

Jordan Wyer,

Kentwood sophomore

paige calamari/staff photographer

Central Michigan Life is the independent voice of Central Michigan University and is edited and published by students of Central Michigan University every Monday, Wednesday and Friday during the fall and spring semesters, and every Wednesday during the summer.

The online edition (www.cm-life.com) contains all of the material published in print.

Central Michigan Life is is under the jurisdiction of the independent Student Media Board of Directors. Articles and opinions do not necessarily reflect the position or opinions

of CMU or its employees.

Central Michigan Life is a member of the Michigan Press Association, the Michigan Collegiate Press Association, the Associated Collegiate Press and the College Newspaper Business & Advertising Managers Association.

Central Michigan Life’s operations are totally funded from revenues through advertising sales. Editions are distributed free throughout the community and individuals are entitled

to one copy. Each copy has an implied value of 75 cents.

Non-university subscriptions are $1 per mailed edition. Copies of photographs published in Central Michigan Life or its online edition (www.cm-life.com) are available for purchase at http://reprints.cm-life.com Central Michigan Life’s editorial and business offices are located at 436 Moore Hall, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI 48859, telephone 774-3493.

Hilary Farrell Columnist

Love from afar Internet makes long-distance relationships possible I have a unique viewpoint on long-distance relationships.

My longest, best, most romantic and most important relationship was two-and-a-half years long; it was long-distance for its entirety.

I would not be the person I am without him, and I am very thankful for it.

This does not mean longdistance relationships work for everyone.

The decision to begin and uphold a long-distance relationship rests with the couple, instead of just the circumstances.

“Dave” and I met our freshman year when I attended another university. We began dating after I transferred to Central Michigan University.

We entered into the relationship with the knowledge we would not live in the same city until at least graduation.

We created a schedule for visits.

We chose times both of us were available to talk on the phone. We utilized social-networking Web sites when we were unable to talk.

LongDistanceRelationships.com says the average long-distance relationship is 125 miles away from each other, visits one-and-a-half times per month and talks for 30 minutes on the phone on average.

Two brilliant (and free) ways to keep in touch is through iChat and Skype. My friend in a longdistance relationship uses this. I love coming over when the two of them are iChatting away (it is adorable).

The toughest part about a longdistance relationship is the lack of intimacy. You are definitely more tempted to stray when your partner is halfway across the universe.

In some cases, this penchant to stray may be a sign you are not ready for this commitment.

As a word of wisdom, smaller things in life seem bigger to those in long-distance relationships.

Silly holidays, such as “Sweetest Day,” take on a larger meaning.

My advice is to remember these silly holidays and celebrate them as a couple, wherever you are. Send flowers or even a text message.

Small gestures are very large gestures when a couple lives very far away from each other.

Once, “Dave” drove three hours to bring me flowers. It was sweet.

Personally, I have a lot of faith in long-distance relationships, even though they are difficult.

Our break up had more to it than just distance. After two-plus years, we became very different people. Our schedules fell apart, and so did we.

I won’t lie and say I don’t miss him. Even writing this, I am playing bad break-up songs (it is a little embarrassing; I live with all guys).

If I had to go through it again, however, I would in a heartbeat.

If you are in a committed relationship facing the possibility of dating long-distance, my advice is to give it a shot.

Take the plunge head-on, prepare yourself for frustration and look forward to the time you spend together, whether it be inperson or in another form.

[letters to the editor] E-mail | voices@cm-life.com Mail | 436 Moore Hall Mount Pleasant, MI 48859 Fax | 989.774.7805 Central Michigan Life welcomes letters to the editor and commentary submissions. Only correspondence that includes a signature (e-mail excluded), address and phone number will be considered. Do not include attached documents via email. Letters should be no longer than 300 words and commentary should not exceed 500 words. All submissions are subject to editing and may be published in print or on www.cm-life.com in the order they are received.

www.cm-life.com

[News]

Central Michigan Life || Monday, Feb. 1, 2010 || 5A

Central, Western join forces in blood drive WMU winning by 177 units as of Thursday

By Susan Young Staff Reporter

libby march/staff photographer

Donor specialist Jennifer Hall of the American Red Cross draws blood from Lake Odessa senior Britney Orszula during the CMU/Western Michigan University Blood Drive on Jan. 22 in Kulhavi Hall. Orszula, a Towers Resident Assistant, has given blood before.

Central Michigan University may have defeated Western Michigan University 34-23 in football last fall, but WMU looks to have won the schools’ blood drive competition last month.

CMU and WMU gathered blood for the American Red Cross, said Dave Weston,

Straight Ally Week kicks off Organizers seek to educate others on equality issues

By Annie Harrison Staff Reporter

The Office of Gay and Lesbian Programs and the Gay Straight Alliance will sponsor several events today through Friday in honor of Straight Ally Week.

“We need to recognize straight allies as a part of the LGBT community,” said Holt senior and GSA co-president Matt Darling. “The LGBT community can’t do it alone. They need the support of straight allies.”

The GSA will kick off the week’s events with a presentation titled, “LGBTA: Where Does the ‘A’ Fit?” The program starts at 7 p.m. today in the Bovee University Center Lake St. Clair Room.

Howell graduate student and GSA Pride co-chair Stasi Russell said straight allies are going to explain what it means to be an ally and how students can help in the LGBT community. The presentation also will include a question-andanswer session.

“Hopefully, through Straight Ally Week, we can get more al-

lies,” Darling said.

On Tuesday, the GSA will set up tables and a button-making machine in the lower floor of the Bovee University Center for people to make their own ally buttons and give donations. The buttons are free and anyone can participate.

The GSA will show a movie at 8 p.m. Wednesday in the Multicultural Education Center.

Russell said the movie will be a comedy and have a straight ally theme, but could not elaborate further due to copyright issues.

On Thursday, the organization will present “Here is Your Inspiration ... You’re Gay ... Action” at 7 p.m. in the Calkins Terrace Lounge.

“We’re going to discuss professional straight actors who play gay characters, such as Sean Penn, who played Harvey Milk (in ‘Milk’),” Russell said.

An open mind Russell said she believes Straight Ally Week is important for the campus because it educates students outside the LGBT community about equal rights. She is passionate about the issue because she has friends in the LGBT community and wants them to have the same rights she does.

“I’ve been actively fighting for this cause since I was 14,”

Straight Ally Week Events w Today: "LGBTA: Where Does the ‘A’ Fit?" 7 p.m. in the Bovee University Center Lake St. Clair Room. w Tuesday: Button-making in the lower level of the UC w Wednesday: Showing of a film, 8 p.m. in the Multicultural Education Center. w Thursday: Presentation of "Here is Your Inspiration ...

You’re Gay ... Action" at 7 p.m. in the Calkins Hall Terrace Lounge. she said. “My best friend in high school came out to me, and I knew I had to be there for him.”

Straight Ally Week allows students to become more involved, Darling said.

“This is something people can do right now,” he said.

“Students that don’t get family support can get support on campus.”

Russell said the ultimate goal of Straight Ally Week is to open people’s minds and educate them about LGBT issues.

“This isn’t just a gay issue — it’s an equality issue,” she said. studentlife@cm-life.com

Collaboration seeks to weave 300 fleece blankets for children

By Ryan Taljonick Staff Reporter

Life can be difficult for foster children moving from home to home.

But something as simple as a fleece blanket can make all the difference.

The Volunteer Center at Central Michigan University and Isabella County Foster Care want to provide fleece blankets for every child in the Isabella County Foster Care system.

That includes more than 200 children.

Selene Wadhawan, a representative with the Isabella County Department of Human Services, said the organization is aiming for 300 blankets.

“When we’re removing children from homes, they often don’t have very many things to make them feel warm and comfy,” Wadhawan said.

Enough donations have been made to produce about 73 blankets so far, said Dana

Gingrich, MCC AmeriCorps VISTA of the Volunteer Center.

“A fleece blanket is something they can keep with them throughout their duration in foster care, and even when they leave the system,” Wadhawan said.

How to donate Students can donate money or fleece material to the Volunteer Center in the lower level of the Bovee University Center or at the Isabella County Department of Human Services office, 1919 Parkland Dr. The blankets are two-bytwo yards in size and are inexpensive to make.

Each one donated through the Volunteer Center includes a CMU ribbon tied to it as a reminder for the children to consider a college education.

Wadhawan said the initiative to obtain fleece blankets is lead by a youth board called Helping Others Prepare for Everything.

mount pleasant | continued from 3A

series of budget cuts. Since then, the center has stood vacant, and several older facilities on the property were already uninhabited.

Caul said the Department of Veterans Administration showed some interest in the property last spring for a hospital. However, because of satellite hospitals in Cadillac and Clare, and the departure of the regional director, Gabriel Perez, from the area, Caul said interest in the property declined.

At the Jan. 25 City Commission meeting, commissioners voted to oversee the water and sewer lines running through the Mount Pleasant Center. Because water and sewage for the Mount Pleasant Public School Building run through the Center, the city needed to temporarily oversee

the lines before the state shut them off. The license agreement is valid until July 28.

Duane Ellis, director of public works, said lines at the center were disconnected as of Friday.

“What we’ve been doing the last couple days is cutting the lines that branch out from the main line that feeds the school building,” he said. “The valves, (the state) didn’t feel, were capable of holding the water from leaking, so what we had to do at each valve location, we had to dig up the water main, cut the pipe physically and put a cap at the end of it,” he said.

Ellis said the state would be willing to work with the city if the property is not sold by July 28 to keep water at the school building running. metro@cm-life.com

The board consists of young adults in the foster care system. “(The youth) are working hard to get this done,” Wadhawan said. “The children in the foster care system have had some experiences in life that many of us can’t imagine.”

Gingrich said the Volunteer Center has been pleased with involvement campuswide so far.

“We’ve had a variety of different (registered student organizations) volunteer to donate money and time and actually make fleece blankets for us,” Gingrich said.

Macomb senior Scott Hillman volunteered to make some blankets and said the effort is worthwhile.

“It’s a project that doesn’t require a lot of time,” Hillman said. “It impacts the local community.”

Other items, such as bags, teddy bears and clothing, also are accepted. studentlife@cm-life.com

community coordinator of the Central Michigan chapter of the American Red Cross.

As of Thursday, Central had donated 199 units of blood compared to Western’s 376.

Friday was the last day for donations.

“We’re about helping the community that we’re living in by working together,” Weston said, He said that way, students can “show the community how much blood the two schools can raise.”

The CMU and WMU Blood Drive Partnership was held in a variety of locations around

CMU’s campus, including St. Mary’s University Parish, 1405 S. Washington St., Sweeney Hall and the Emmons Hall lobby.

Ann Arbor senior Alena Fear is not afraid to donate blood — she has been doing it since high school.

“I knew that there were people out there that needed it,” Fear said.

She said the system only works if a lot of people continue to donate.

“We might need it ourselves one day,” Fear said.

Weston said students should give blood simply to

save lives.

“You can call it being a hero with having to wear a mask,” Weston said.

Blood Drive Supervisor Marcia Price said each unit of blood has the potential to save three lives.

Fear has donated blood about 10 times so far. She said she tries to donate as often as she can — about every two months.

“It is very rewarding,” Fear said. “It’s giving a little bit of yourself to a few people who really need it.” studentlife@cm-life.com

grace church moving | continued from 3A

done by the time each service rolls around.

Accommodation Adam Agosta, a Mount Pleasant resident and CMU graduate student, said he likes being part of the building process.

“It’s like a family,” he said. “It’s fun to do it together.”

CMU alumnus and Mount Pleasant resident Justin Weare worked as an Embers server in 2004.

He said it was interesting to be back in the building and help with the renovation.

“It has been really weird and surreal, but cool,” he said.

Agosta and Weare said the main reason they are still in Mount Pleasant is because of Grace Church.

The church currently meets at the Ward Theatre, 218 S. Main St. The Embers location will offer more space, particularly to accommodate the growing number of children — anywhere from 100-150 — who come for one of two services each weekend, church members say.

Tubbs said local businesses have allowed the church use of their buildings to help accommodate

the youngest members.

“We usually send the kids to about four or five different buildings, so it’s really inconvenient,” he said.

A big reason for the move was location. A location on Mission makes it easier to find and is closer to Central Michigan University’s campus.

“We do a lot of involvement with student groups,” Tubbs said. “This puts us within walking distance of campus.”

He said about 90 percent of the work has been done by volunteers within the congregation. metro@cm-life.com

top of the west |Men’s basketball team beats Miami (OH) on road, 3B

sports

B

Central Michigan Life

Monday, Feb. 1, 2010

[cm-life.com/category/sports]

Basketball

Weekend

gaining ground

wrestling

Chippewas beat Hokies, Monarchs

The CMU women’s basketball team is two games behind Mid-American Conference West-leading Toledo after Saturday’s win.

Men’s MAC Standings West Division Team

CMU Ball St. NIU WMU EMU Toledo

MAC

5-2 5-3 4-3 3-4 2-5 0-7

Team sweeps through eastward road trip

Overall

10-9 11-9 8-11 11-9 10-10 3-18

East Division Team

MAC

Overall

Akron Kent St. Miami (OH) Buffalo BGSU Ohio

5-2 5-2 5-3 4-3 3-4 2-5

15-6 14-7 8-13 11-7 10-9 11-10

By D.J. Palomares and Matthew Valinski Staff Reporters

The CMU wrestling team thrived in Virginia as it went 2-0 against its opponents over the weekend.

Central defeated No. 25 Old Dominion 24-13 on Sunday after beating No. 15 Virgnia Tech 21-17 Friday.

“I wish we could attack a little more when we are on our feet,” said coach Tom Borrelli. “We have been really good at defending our own legs, but we still need to be more aggressive.”

Freshman 174-pounder Ben Bennett earned a pin against senior 174pounder Eric Decker halfway through the second period. The fall was the second of the season for Bennett.

“I did pretty good once I started attacking,” Bennett said. “I started out a little slow but, once I started to get my offense going, it got much better.”

Senior 157-pounder Tony D’Alie and sophomore 133-pounder Scotti Sentes earned bonus points for Central with major decisions against their opponents.

The Chippewas struggled to clinch wins in overtime as senior 125-pounder Matt Steintrager and Scotti Sentes senior 165-pounder Tyler Grayson lost in overtime.

“We have been training hard and pushing ourselves in practice,” Bennett said. “We have to keep working so we can be successful at the MAC tournament and the National finals.”

Sunday’s results Ball St. 67, Ohio 66

Saturday’s results

CMU 64, BGSU 52 Miami (OH) 61, EMU 51 Kent St. 74, WMU 73 Buffalo 95, NIU 83 Akron 59, Toledo 45 *Home teams in bold

Women’s MAC Standings West Division Team

MAC

Overall

Toledo EMU CMU Ball St. NIU WMU

7-1 5-3 5-3 3-5 2-6 0-8

17-4 15-5 8-12 9-12 8-12 5-16

East Division Team

MAC

Overall

BGSU Kent St. Akron Miami (OH) Buffalo Ohio

7-1 6-2 6-2 3-5 2-6 2-6

17-5 13-7 12-9 5-16 6-15 6-15

photos by Matthew Stephens/Senior Photographer

Senior Britni Houghton finished with 20 points off the bench in CMU’s 96-86 win against Miami (OH) on Saturday at Rose Arena.

C h i p p e was 9 6

ON THE RISE

By Aaron McMann Staff Reporter

CMU 96, Miami (OH) 86 Ohio 62, Ball St. 59 Akron 73, EMU 66 Toledo 66, BGSU 63 Kent St. 80, NIU 71 Buffalo 50, WMU 46 *Home teams in bold

Men’s MAC Leaders Player (team)

w w w w w w w w w w

David Kool (WMU) Rodney Pierce (Buffalo) Brandon Bowdry (EMU) Carlos Medlock (EMU) Armon Bassett (Ohio) Kenny Hayes (Miami) Robbie Harman (CMU) D.J. Cooper (Ohio) Jake Barnett (Toledo) Jordan Bitzer (CMU)

Rebounds

Player (team)

w w w w w

Brandon Bowdry (EMU) Donald Lawson (WMU) Jarrod Jones (Ball St.) Otis Polk (BGSU) Calvin Betts (Buffalo)

PPG

21.0 18.0 16.5 14.9 14.3 13.9 13.8 13.8 13.6 13.0

RPG

10.0 7.8 7.6 7.5 7.3

Field Goal Percentage Player (team)

%

The CMU women’s basketball team used its seventh starting lineup combination of the season to climb in a MidAmerican Conference West Division tie for second place with Eastern Michigan.

In the process, the 96-86 win against Miami (OH) on Saturday before a crowd of 625 at Rose Arena snapped a nine-game losing streak to the RedHawks that dated back to Jan.19, 2000.

Freshman Jalisa Olive played 6 minutes and made her lone field goal attempt.

Upset with the team’s production in its 82-76 loss at Kent State on Wednesday, coach Sue Guevara elected not to start senior Britni Skylar Miller Houghton, sophomore Skylar Miller and freshman Stefanie Mauk — all of whom

Malik Perry (Ball St.) Nikola Cvetinovic (Akron) Sean Kowal (NIU) Justin Greene (Kent St.) Erik Marschall (BGSU)

57.0 54.4 53.5 51.9 50.4

Free Throw Percentage Player (team)

w w w w w

David Kool (WMU) Jordan Bitzer (CMU) Tommy Freeman (Ohio) Jake Barnett (Toledo) Jauwan Scaife (Ball St.)

%

90.2 88.2 83.3 83.1 82.5

had started the previous five games — in favor of junior forward Laura Baker and senior guards Kendra Holman and Heidi Warczinsky.

While Baker, Holman and Warczinsky combined for seven points and five rebounds, Guevara’s message seemed to resonate with Houghton and Miller, both of whom had improved games.

“I think, every game, I try hard,” said Houghton, who

More Inside w Read more coverage and analysis from Staff Reporter John Evans, 4B scored 20 points and grabbed seven rebounds in 27 minutes. “But watching film, I saw a different thing — I saw that I wasn’t sprinting as fast as I could. This game, coming off A rise | 4B

sports@cm-life.com

LeFevour bumps draft stock in Senior Bowl Staff Reports

w w w w w

CMU 21, Virginia Tech 17 Central started the weekend with a win over the Hokies. The match started with CMU taking the only bout between ranked opponents, as No. 9 Matt Steintrager defeated No. 14 Jarrod Garnett 7-4.

“I was up 6-0 after the second and I gave up a reversal and a couple of stalling points, but I don’t think he was really in the match,” Steintrager said.

No. 9 Scotti Sentes scored a major decision to win 13-0 against Brock LiVorio, giving CMU an early 7-0 lead.

“I think we’re better than what we wrestled at some weight classes,” Borrelli said. “I don’t like to make excuses, but I think the day wore on us.”

Central’s bus broke down in West Virginia before its meet. CMU did not make it to Blacksburg, Va., until two and a half hours before the match started.

“With everything that has gone on in this trip, beating two top 25 teams is a pretty good weekend for us,” Borrelli said. “With the weather, the travel and the competition, I was impressed with the way we competed.”

The Chippewas began the weekend as the seventh-ranked program in the nation and the pair of dual wins brings their record to 12-2.

CMU has one more out-of-conference match left in the regular season this Friday against in-state rival Michigan State.

CMU shuffles its lineup, continues winning ways at home

Saturday’s results

Points

r e d h aw ks 8 6

Former CMU quarterback Dan LeFevour continues to have success at Ladd-Peebles Stadium in Mobile, Ala. The last time he was there, he led CMU to a come-from-behind, 44-41 double-overtime win against Troy in the GMAC Bowl. This time around, his performance at the Senior Bowl accomplished something else: a steadily rising draft stock.

LeFevour, who entered the game as the North team’s third quarterback in the third quarter, completed 5-of-10 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown.

He added 12 rushing yards and a

rushing touchdown and was named the North’s most outstanding player in the process.

“You’re going up against the best and I was able to have some productiv- Dan LeFevour ity,” LeFevour said.

“I realize I have some work to do and there’s not going to be as limited defensively at the next level as they were in this game. This is Pro Bowl rules.”

LeFevour hit former Cincinnati wide receiver Mardy Gilyard downfield for two deep completions —

one of 43 yards and the other a 32yard touchdown. He also scored on a 1-yard touchdown run.

Tebow comparisons For much of his career, CMU’s signal caller has been compared to Florida’s Tim Tebow. Both of the dual-threat variety and both running spread offenses in college, it was Tebow — the former Heisman Trophy winner and two-time national champion — who had little success.

He completed 8-of-12 passes for 50 yards, but did not get into the end zone and fumbled twice.

LeFevour said he is getting more

sports@cm-life.com

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IT EEE 4B G FSREE PA

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comfortable with time in a pro system.

“Obviously, I was more comfortable in the shotgun yesterday, but I didn’t feel uncomfortable under center,” he said. “I just need some more work.”

As for coaching, LeFevour and the North were coached by the Detroit Lions staff. LeFevour said he was happy with the way Detroit offensive coordinator Scott Linehan handled the week.

“He didn’t try to over coach within a week, which I really appreciated,” he said.

4;F?HNCH?_M .?LMIH;FM

Let that special someone know just how you feel!

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2B || Monday, Feb. 1, 2010 || Central Michigan Life

Gymnasts beat Eagles in MAC meet Taylor claims all-around title against EMU

By Nick Conklin Staff Reporter

Freshman Britney Taylor waited for Mid-American Conference competition to rise to the top.

The CMU gymnastics team opened its MAC schedule Saturday by beating Eastern Michigan 192.975-191.525 in Ypsilanti and improving its record to 4-1.

Posting a 47.1 on the balance beam, Central finished behind EMU in the final rotation by 1.25 points. Three CMU gymnasts had falls during their beam routines.

But CMU coach Jerry Reighard said Taylor’s balance beam perBritney Taylor formance, which edged EMU’s Kaylyn Millick by .05 points, was the highlight of the event.

“It was an absolute joy to see,” he said, “She does one of the most difficult routines in the conference.”

Taylor (39.025) and senior Katie Simon (38.9) led the way with the two best allaround scores of the meet.

Taylor claimed her first allaround victory of her career.

Taylor scored her highest on the balance beam (9.825), which has been the team’s lowest-scoring event through the first four meets, including Saturday.

She improved her previous balance beam score from

cm-life.com/category/sports

[Sports]

the competition in Denver (9.375). However, she said she is aware of the up-anddown nature of gymnastics and that each week is a different meet.

“Just because I did well today, I still need to do good next week,” she said, “I just need to keep doing the things I know I can do.”

Leadership The night started on the uneven bars, where Simon and junior Cheryl Conlin provided CMU the lead. The gymnasts posted scores of 9.825 and 9.7, respectively.

“The entire bars squad did a great job,” Reighard said, “(Simon) had a spectacular routine, and (Conlin) had the best bar routine of her career.”

Simon also shared the high score on the vault; her and Taylor scored routines of 9.825.

The third rotation involved the floor exercise, where freshman Bailey Brumbach made her first collegiate appearance and scored a 9.65.

Sophomore Kristin Teubner scored a 9.775 and won the event, Cheryl Conlin scored a 9.75 and Simon a 9.750.

“We got exactly what we needed from our floor personnel,” Reighard said.

Senior Jessica Suder competed for the first time this season, following a broken foot that sidelined her for the first four meets.

Exhibition On vault, freshmen Meaghan McWhorter and Keri Deiffenderfer performed in the exhibition role and scored above 9.7. The exhibition allows gymnasts to practice their routines in front of judges for a per-

What’s on tap Up next: Feb 7: State of Michigan Classic (vs. Michigan State, WMU and EMU)

Who’s hot: Freshman Britney Taylor has three event wins and an all-around win in her last two meets.

Senior Katie Simon also won two events against EMU (vault, uneven bars), and sophomore Kristin Teuber (9.775), junior Cheryl Conlin (9.75) and Simon (9.75) finished with the top three scores on the floor exercise.

Who’s not: Junior Andrea de la Garza scored an 8.35 on the uneven bars and an 8.85 on the balance beam. sonal score, although it does not count toward the team total. Reighard employs two exhibition performances on each event in order to help prepare some of his younger gymnasts for collegiate competition.

“It gives the athletes a chance to get out there under competitive pressure, and it gives the coaches a chance to see how they perform,” he said.

Central will face EMU again next weekend when it travels to Kalamazoo for the State of Michigan Classic at 1 p.m. Saturday. Michigan State and Western Michigan also are competing. Last year, CMU finished second behind MSU.

track and field

Women win Chippewa Invite; men place second to Eastern Senior Riak Mabil finishes first in distance race

Up next: Feb 12-13: Grand Valley Big Meet

Who’s hot:

By Josh Berenter Staff Reporter

Junior Raeanne Lohner was part of two event wins — the 3,000-meter run and the distance medley (team).

The CMU women’s track team won its second consecutive scored meet of the indoor season Saturday when it hosted the Chippewa Invitational.

CMU totaled 160 points and its closest competitor was Eastern Michigan, which scored 111. Western Michigan finished third (96), Kent State fourth (53.5) and Oakland finished last (5.5).

“We’re excited these women came out here and competed,” said coach Willie Randolph.

“We had a balanced attack, and we’re ready for the conference championships.”

Junior Raeanne Lohner won the women’s 3,000meter run with a time of 9 minutes, 58.69 seconds.

Lohner also ran the first leg of the winning distance medley team.

Senior Erika Schroll won the high jump competition for the third consecutive week with a height of 5 feet, 10 inches.

Randolph said home-meet experience is vital for his team’s success and it is important for athletes to be able to get through the anxiety of the competition.

“The home-crowd support surprised me,” Randolph said. “It speaks volumes about where we’re going and what this university has done for us.

That’s what collegiate sports should be about.”

The men’s team The men’s team (151.5) finished second in the meet, 10.5 points behind Mid-American Conference rival Eastern Michigan (162).

Randolph said his staff is moving some athletes to different sprinting events, but thinks the men will be ready for the conference championships.

Freshman Renaldo Powell won the 60-meter hurdles and the triple jump competition.

Powell, who competed in his first scoring meet at home, said he does not consider himself a freshman who cannot make an impact.

“At practice, we’re all just trying to compete,” he said.

“Everyone on the team just wants to win.”

Powell said he was impressed with the crowd support and it helped him succeed.

“I love having the crowd out here watching,” he said. “It seems like everyone I know is out here and I don’t want to let them down.”

Other winners for the men were Riak Mabil, who won his first race of the season in the 3000-meter run (8:37.61), and senior Marcus Breidinger, who won the pole vault competition by clearing 16’1”.

Pilling Senior All-American thrower Greg Pilling was formally recognized as the 2008-09 Dick Enberg Scholar Athlete of the Year recipient.

The Enberg award is given annually to a CMU athlete who excels in academics and athletics. It was given to Pilling in the fall, but Randolph said he wanted Pilling to accept the award on the track where it belongs.

“It’s here on the track where he actually gives back the most,” Randolph said. “He’s a class-act young man, and we’re excited about his future.”

The track and field teams is off next weekend, but returns Feb. 12 in the Grand Valley Big Meet in Allendale. sports@cm-life.com

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cm-life.com/category/sports

[Sports]

men’s basketball

CMU 64, BGSU 52 - Final statistics — Sat., Jan 30 Score by half Bowling Green Central Michigan

1 21 28

2 31 36

Team totals:

CMU

FG-FGA Field Goal % 3-Pt. FG-FGA 3-Point % FT-FTA Free Throw % Rebounds Blocks Assists Turnovers Fouls Steals Bench Points

21-52 40.4 6-19 31.6 16-23 69.6 38 5 14 14 17 6 21

Total 52 64 NIU

21-55 38.2 1-11 9.1 9-14 64.3 35 4 11 14 21 5 6

Game leaders Points

Jalin Thomas (CMU) F 16 points Scott Thomas (BGSU) F 13 points Jordan Bitzer (CMU) G 12 points Erik Marschall (BGSU) F 11 points Rebounds

Jalin Thomas (CMU) F 10 rebounds Erik Marschall (BGSU) F 10 rebounds Jordan Bitzer (CMU) G 8 rebounds

MAC’s best need road wins Team can improve .500 road record

Tim Ottusch Senior Reporter

B

OWLING GREEN, Ohio — People don’t often look at going 1-1 in a two-game stretch as entirely positive.

But for CMU men’s basketball, it is just what it needed to stay on course.

The Chippewas’ win Saturday in Bowling Green splits the team’s two-game road trip against the Falcons and the Miami RedHawks, who they lost to Thursday.

Saturday’s win helped the team maintain its lead in the MAC West and pushed its MAC road record to 2-2.

Playing on the road in college basketball is often a death sentence. In the Mid-American Conference, only two teams have winning conference records on the road. CMU is one of five MAC teams with a .500 record on the road in MAC play.

But a .500 record on the road for CMU means a lot more because it plays in the MAC West.

Only Northern Illinois has a winning conference record on the road in the MAC West, and CMU and BSU are the only other schools in the division with a .500 or better record on the road in league play.

Adding to the mix is the conference’s crossover play right now, where each MAC West team plays each MAC East team. Last season, the MAC West went 1-17 on the road against the East.

CMU went 0-3 on the road during that time and ended up tying for the MAC West divisional title, something it could have won outright if it won just one MAC East road game.

The team has shown improvements. Last year, the team went 2-6 on the road in the MAC and 0-3 against the East. The team has already won two MAC road games (2-2) and has already won a road game against a MAC East school.

The team’s ability to win on the road will be the deciding factor in whether it wins

file photo by matthew stephens

Senior guard Robbie Harman has seen his average drop to 13.8 points per game after shooting 5-for-18 in his last two games. He still leads the team in points.

the MAC West this year, and the team knows that.

“It’s going to put us in position to continue to fight to be at the top of the conference and the division,” said CMU coach Ernie Zeigler after Saturday’s victory.

Zeigler credits his veterans, such as seniors Jordan Bitzer, Robbie Harman and Chris Kellermann, for keeping the team together when playing in hostile environments.

“It’s a different type of focus you have to have on the road because it’s just you against everybody else in the arena, and you kind of have to create your own energy,” Bitzer said.

The team can take care of business at home (and they will have to on this upcoming three-game home stretch against MAC East teams). The team has had winning conference home records the past two seasons and is 3-0 in the conference this season.

What will make the difference will be if it can have a winning record on the road, something the team has not done in Zeigler’s tenure at CMU. The team went 4-4, 2-6 and 2-6 in Zeigler’s first three seasons.

A winning road record this year will be the deciding fac-

Road Challenges CMU’s 2008-09 MAC road record: 2-6 2008-09 road record vs. MAC East: 0-3 2009-10 MAC road record: 2-2 2009-10 road record vs. MAC East: 1-1

2009-10 MAC road schedule Jan. 9 @ Toledo W 59-48 Jan. 16 @ WMU L 70-61 Jan. 28 @ Miami L 64-51 Jan. 30 @ BGSU W 64-52 Feb. 11 @ Ohio Feb. 17 @ Ball St. Feb. 24 @ NIU March 4 @ EMU tor to whether CMU can get over the hump. sports@cm-life.com

Central Michigan Life || Monday, Feb. 1, 2010 || 3B

Chippewas rebound from prior loss Team improves defensive play in win vs. BGSU

By Tim Ottusch Senior Reporter

BOWLING GREEN, Ohio — CMU men’s basketball coach Ernie Zeigler did not feel like his team played as well defensively as it could have in Thursday’s loss at Miami.

The team responded Saturday, holding Bowling Green to 38.2 percent shooting en route to a 62-54 win Saturday in Anderson Arena in Bowling Green, Ohio, in front of 2,222.

In constrast, Miami shot 54.5 percent in the second half of Thursday’s game, where CMU lost 64-51 in the first game of a two-game road trip Jordan Bitzer against MAC East schools.

“I thought our veterans really came out and responded from the previous game at Miami, where we didn’t play as we could play defensively,” Zeigler said. “I thought we really had good focus, a sense of purpose, and it put us in position to secure a hard-fought road win.”

The win secured the team’s spot in sole possession of first place in the MAC West with a 5-2 conference record.

“It was a real big win,” said junior forward Jalin Thomas.

“After last game, we felt like we underachieved. The coaches felt like we didn’t come out hard enough, so we wanted to come out on the road and get this win.”

Ball State (5-3) is a half game back after winning Sunday at Ohio and Northern Illinois (4-3) sits one game behind.

First half CMU and BGSU went back and forth in the first half. But with 9:28 remaining in the first half and the Falcons up 16-13, the Chippewas took control.

The team went on a 15-1 run, holding BGSU scoreless

file photo by matthew stephens

Coach Ernize Zeigler talks with junior guard Antonio Weary on the bench.

at one point for 4 minutes, 29 seconds, and took a 28-17 lead with 2:51 remaining in the first.

BGSU scored the final four points, closing the lead to 2821 at the half. CMU held the Falcons to 34.6 percent shooting, while it shot 36.7. Bowling Green outrebounded Central 20-17.

Senior guard Jordan Bitzer and junior guard Antonio Weary each scored seven points in the half. CMU held BGSU sophomore forward Scott Thomas, who averaged 11.7 points per game coming into Saturday, to 0-for-6 shooting from the field in the half and one point.

Control In the second half, CMU maintained its control. The team had a pair of 10-0 runs during the half, leading by as many as 20 points.

“We were able to get out in transition,” Zeigler said. “Our defense fueled our offense. “ Thomas finished with a double-double for CMU (16 points and 10 rebounds).

“Jalin’s just a warrior,” Zeigler said. “He’s been battling back from those concussionlike symptoms, and you just really saw him getting back to the Jalin Thomas that we saw here early in the nonconference season.”

Bitzer finished with 12 points and eight rebounds. Senior forward Chris Kellermann also scored in double figures, finishing with 10.

BGSU’s Thomas finished the game with 13 points, but was 5-of-15 from the field and

What’s on tap Up next: Thursday: vs. Buffalo

Who’s hot: Junior forward Jalin Thomas had 16 points, 10 rebounds and two steals against BGSU.

Who’s not: Senior guard Robbie Harman has shot 5-for-18 in the last two games.

0-for-4 from 3-point range.

Senior forward Erik Marschall scored 11 points and grabbed 10 rebounds. CMU held BGSU to 1-of-11 shooting from the 3-point line.

“We just wanted to pressure them, not give them not much space.” Bitzer said.

CMU is 3-1 against the Falcons and 2-0 in Bowling Green under Zeigler.

CMU (10-9, 5-2 MAC) plays Buffalo (11-7, 4-3 MAC) at 7 p.m. Thursday at Rose Arena.

That game starts a threegame home streak against MAC East schools. The team hosts Kent State on Saturday and Akron on Feb. 9. The three teams are tops in the MAC East.

“It’s going to be huge,” Thomas said. “Coach (Zeigler) is always stressing about protecting our house, and that’s exactly what we got to do.” sports@cm-life.com

4B || Monday, Feb. 1, 2010 || Central Michigan Life

women’s basketball

Team relies on home success Road woes must be solved for progress

H

Road woes The Chippewas have had

rise | continued from 1B

the bench, I wanted to make an emphasis — going for every loose ball, getting on the floor and sprinting the floor — so I think that was my motivation and the difference.”

Houghton’s numbers were a stark contrast from her fivepoint, one-rebound game at Kent State.

Immediately after entering the game with 14:23 remaining in the first half, Houghton found junior forward Kaihla Szunko (23 points, game-high 16 rebounds) near the basket for an easy layup.

“Coming off the bench, I think, gave her an opportunity to take a look and see what can be effective and what can’t be effective,” Guevara said.

Leaders respond to lineup change Houghton, Long and Szunko score more than 20

By John Evans Staff Reporter

John Evans Staff Reporter ome-court advantage is something teams around the country must take into account.

But for the CMU women’s basketball team, home-court advantage has been something to live and die by.

So far this season, the Chippewas are 6-2 when playing at Rose Arena, as opposed to 2-8 when playing away from home — a testament to the atmosphere and the fans that seem to get the team pumped up for each game.

Starting Thursday, the Chippewas begin their final eight-game stretch of the season. They have two games on the road, then come home for a four-game homestand before finishing the season with two more on the road.

During that four-game stretch at home, the Chippewas will face Eastern Michigan and Toledo for the second time this season. Toledo stands alone in first at 7-1 in the Mid-American Conference West Division and EMU is 5-3 in the MAC West, tied with CMU. If the Chippewas want to stay in contention for a MAC title, they will have to win those games.

cm-life.com/category/sports

[Sports]

Matthew Stephens/senior photographer

Junior guard Shonda Long led CMU with 25 points in its 96-86 win against Miami (OH) on Saturday at Rose Arena.

some quality wins at home this season, including an 84-75 win over then-ranked No. 25 Louisville. They are 3-0 at home against conference opponents and have a sixgame home win streak.

As important as it is for the Chippewas to continue to play well at home, it is equally as important for them to try and shake off some of these road woes and steal one or two away from Rose Arena.

Just one win away from home in the MAC is not going to cut it in a league that seems to be coming down to the wire in terms of the standings.

On Thursday, the team faces another tough oppo-

nent in Akron, which is 6-2 in the conference and on a three-game win streak. Akron has one home loss on the season and, in order for CMU to win, the leaders of the team are going to have to continue to step up and be consistent.

The Chippewas are still struggling to find continuity throughout the lineup and a rotation is going to have to come together soon as the season winds down.

This continuity could fix some of these road problems and help CMU get a chance at a MAC title, which has been the goal of the team from the beginning.

Attacking offense Despite shooting 35.5 percent in the first half, CMU (8-12, 5-3 MAC) combated Miami’s 53.6 percent shooting by outrebounding the RedHawks 2212 and getting to the free-throw line nine more times before trailing 44-41 at halftime.

“We were able to penetrate,” Guevara said. “When you start penetrating, you’re forcing the officials to make a call. I thought we got better on dribble-penetration and passed the ball a little bit better ... so we were attacking.”

The Chippewas continued to outrebound Miami and force it into foul trouble, taking a 47-46 lead on a Houghton layup less than 4 minutes into the second half. From there, CMU took control and extended its lead to as many as 14 points with 8 minutes remaining.

CMU shot a much-improved 51.7 percent from the floor in the second half while getting to the free-throw line another 32 times to secure the win, its sixth consecutive at home.

“I think we’re still finding ourselves,” Szunko said. “We play better in the second half. We just need to find a group of five players that can come out and come out strong.”

Junior guard Shonda Long scored 25 points while freshman guard Rachel Mauk added 11 points, her second consecutive double-digit game. Her sister, Stefanie, did not play.

Sophomore guard Maggie Boyer scored a game-high 29 points for Miami (5-16, 3-5 MAC).

CMU continues crossover play at 7 p.m. Thursday when it travels to Akron.

sports@cm-life.com

sports@cm-life.com

In a game that saw nine CMU players score, the three most consistent players on the women’s basketball team contributed the most in their 96-86 victory Saturday against the Miami RedHawks.

Juniors Shonda Long, Kaihla Szunko and senior Britni Houghton combined for 68 of the 96 points scored for the Chippewas.

Houghton’s 20-point effort came off of the bench to keep CMU in the game through the later stages of the first half.

“I have been saying this all year long, you are only as good as your bench and, well, our bench came through for us again today,” said coach Sue Guevara.

“It’s nice to see Houghton come back after a really tough game against Kent State.”

Szunko made a presence inside and on the glass, scoring 23 points and grabbing 16 rebounds, 12 coming on the offensive end.

Long added 25 points and shot 9-of-10 from the free-throw line.

“I think they just let the game come to them,” Guevara said. “Szunko has been pretty consistent.

What you saw today is what you saw the last time we played, and Shonda has been consistent as well.”

Foul troubles Miami got into foul trouble and had to mix up its lineup throughout the game. Three players for the RedHawks fouled out of the game late in the second half.

The Chippewas were in the bonus at the 13-minute mark of the first half and the 12-minute mark of the

second half, allowing them to shoot free throws on every foul after that.

“I think (it) was easy to get inside because we got them into foul trouble early,” Szunko said. “We were attacking, and they couldn’t handle when we pounded it in.”

It was the first game Houghton has not started this season after shooting 2-of-11 against Kent State.

Long has been CMU’s most consistent backcourt scorer, averaging 14 points per game and nearly 32 minutes per game. She is the team’s leading scorer with 14.6 points per game. sports@cm-life.com

What’s on tap Up next: Feb. 4: @ Akron

Who’s hot: Junior Shonda Long scored 25, junior Kaihla Szunko scored 23 and senior Britni Houghton scored 20 in CMU’s win.

Who’s not: Coach Sue Guevara chose not to start Houghton, Skylar Miller or Stefanie Mauk. While Houghton responded, Miller finished with eight points and Mauk did not play.